If I Knew This Before Becoming an Expat Leader
If I Knew This Before Becoming an Expat Leader
How to thrive and not just survive as a first time international leader
Some 24 years ago, I left my home country with a young family for what was supposed to be a 2-year work assignment.
After all those years later, I'm still not back and home has become more than one place.
As exciting as the adventure was, it was still a step into the great unknown, a huge leap of faith actually.
With a company backing us, financially and logistically, the relocation was largely uneventful.
However, living in a new country, immersed in all its differences, the novelty factor can quickly wear off and homesickness sets in.
Looking back, we learned so much, but these few points stand out about how to adjust and most importantly, in a new home.
People are the same - no matter where you go, treat everyone respectfully. Guess what? You will receive the same in return. Who would have thought?
Nowhere is perfect - over 40 countries in and still going, it's clear to me, that everywhere has its fair share of positives and negatives. Don't fight it. Roll with the new environment, embrace it. Trust me, it's far less stressful that way.
Leave your ego at the door - be humble, kind, thankful to everyone, just be nice and smile. Learn from all the new people and friends that you meet. With this one, you can never go wrong in any situation.
Manners matter - the value of “please” and “thank you” can not be understated, but pro tip, don’t expect or require reciprocity.
You don’t know it all - over the years I’ve seen first hand good managers and leader fall into the trap of assuming they know everything. After all, that’s why they were promoted in the first place, correct?
Follow local rules and laws - don’t assume what was perfectly legal or accepted back home is the same in your new country. Common sense applies here and if in doubt, ask. The same goes for when you’re driving, where a falling out with the local police can easily ruin far more than a day.
Living and working overseas as a new leader can be a hugely rewarding experience and adventure.
These few simple pointers can make a big difference as you settle into your new life.
I love this list, Richard and it's a great reflection of my own experience.
When I mention that I have lived in several countries, the following question is often, "Which one was your favorite?" and my answer is always what you said here: every country has its positives and you have to take the best.
Such a simple yet powerful list. It definitely chimes with my experience of living and working in 9 different countries.
Always apply the same standards of behaviour but adapt to the specific customs. And don't assume you know better. You may have some great ideas but they may not work in another culture. The best results come from collaboration.